Many Midland residents lived with the fear that their property could be dangerous. For years, soil contaminated with a chemical called dioxin has been a concern for homeowners.

But now, clean-up of these areas is moving faster than expected. Over 125 residential properties cleaned up in the city of Midland.

The city was recognized Friday by the Department of Environmental Quality for fixing the problem in many neighborhoods.

"We're going to see a significant amount of work being done in neighborhoods, significant amounts of work where we can then take and put businesses on what historically has been contaminated property," says Dan Wyant, Director of the Department of Environmental Quality.

The DEQ and Dow Chemical visited areas that have been rejuvenated and are now dioxin-free.

According to the DEQ, environmental clean-up is also improving across the state of Michigan. The dioxin clean-up was an important part of the tour. Dioxin is a result of airborne emissions from waste management that Dow once used.

Since 2012, Dow Chemical has been testing dioxin contaminated areas, then replacing the soil on the property.

The DEQ also toured Midland's waste-water treatment plant. They finished their tour at Poet bio-refining in Caro.

Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle and former Army Ranger Alejandro Villanueva (78) stands outside the tunnel alone during the national anthem before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Sept. 24, 2017. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

The Pittsburgh Steelers will be on the field during the national anthem for next weekend's game against the Baltimore Ravens.